# Draft California 2012 Integrated Report( 303(d) List/305(b) Report)

# Supporting Information

## Regional Board 6 - Lahontan Region

Water Body Name: | Independence Creek
Water Body ID: | CAR6360002020110817214650
Water Body Type: | River & Stream

DECISION ID | 32030 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Chloride
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 26 samples is needed for application of table 3.2. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32030, Chloride | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 32265
Pollutant: | Chloride
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The single sample collected did not exceed the water quality objective.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | From the Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-10, the water quality objective for chloride in this water body is an annual average of 1.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at station 636PS0006 in Independence Creek.
Temporal Representation: | The sample was collected on 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32031 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Nitrate
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 16 samples is needed for application of table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32031, Nitrate | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 32314
Pollutant: | Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The single sample did not exceed the water quality objective for nitrate as nitrogen expressed as an annual mean of monthly means. Nitrate as N was calculated by subtracting nitrite as N data from nitrate + nitrite as N data when they were collected on the same day.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | Table 3-10 of the Basin Plan states that the site specific objective for Independence Cr at Mouth for nitrate as nitrogen is 0.03 mg/L expressed as an annual mean of monthly means.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at monitoring station Independence Creek (636PS0006).
Temporal Representation: | Sample was collected on 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32032 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 16 samples is needed for application of table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32032, Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N) | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 44342
Pollutant: | Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Independence Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate/Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The California Maximum Contaminant Level for nitrate + nitrite (as N) that is incorporated by reference in the Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region is 10.0 mg/L (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Data for this line of evidence for Independence Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Independence Creek]
Temporal Representation: | Data was collected on a single day 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: | Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32033 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Nitrite
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 16 samples is needed for application of table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32033, Nitrite | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 44363
Pollutant: | Nitrite
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Independence Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Basin, Objective for Municipal and Domestic Supply uses of inland surface waters states the following: waters shall not contain concentrations of inorganic chemicals in excess of the limits specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Table 64431-A of section 64431 (Inorganic Chemicals). The maximum contaminant level listed in Table 64431-A for Nitrite as N is 1.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Data for this line of evidence for Independence Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Independence Creek]
Temporal Representation: | Data was collected on a single day 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: | Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32034 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 16 samples is needed for application of table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32034, Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia) | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 32500
Pollutant: | Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The single sample did not exceeded the water quality objective for unionized ammonia. Data were reported as as total ammonia as nitrogen and were converted to unionized ammonia before being compared with the objective.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Lahontan Basin Plan objective for unionized ammonia is a function of pH, temperature, and the presence of salmonids. The 4-day chronic criteria for unionized ammonia with salmonids present is 0.042 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | The sample was collected at site 636PS0006.
Temporal Representation: | The sample was collected on 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32035 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Oxygen, Dissolved
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. The single sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample exceeded the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 26 samples is needed for application of table 3.2. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32035, Oxygen, Dissolved | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 32333
Pollutant: | Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 1
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The single sample collected exceeded the water quality objective.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The objective from Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-6 for water bodies with the COLD and SPWN beneficial uses shall not be less than a one-day minimum dissolved oxygen concentration of 8.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at station 636PS0006 in Independence Creek.
Temporal Representation: | Sample collected on 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32036 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Phosphorus
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 16 samples is needed for application of table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32036, Phosphorus | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 34255
Pollutant: | Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Dissolved
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | Numeric data generated from 1 sample of Phosphorus, Total had no exceedences
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | WATER QUALITY OBJECTIVES FOR CERTAIN WATER BODIES LITTLE TRUCKEE RIVER HYDROLOGIC UNIT: Independence Creek: 0.03 mg/L
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | The sample was collected from the Independence Creek station.
Temporal Representation: | One sample was collected on 7/21/2008 at 15:15:00.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | SWAMP QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32037 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Specific Conductivity
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 26 samples is needed for application of table 3.2. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: |

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32037, Specific Conductivity | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 44284
Pollutant: | Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Independence Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Conductivity(Us).
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The California Secondary MCL that is incorporated by reference in the Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region for specific conductance is 900 uS/cm (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Data for this line of evidence for Independence Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Independence Creek]
Temporal Representation: | Data was collected on a single day 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: | Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32038 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Sulfates
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 26 samples is needed for application of table 3.2. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32038, Sulfates | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 32334
Pollutant: | Sulfates
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The single sample collected did not exceed the water quality objective.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | From the Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-10, the water quality objective for sulfate in this water body is an annual average of 1.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at station 636PS0006 in Independence Creek.
Temporal Representation: | The sample was collected on 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32039 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Temperature, water
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 26 samples is needed for application of table 3.2. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32039, Temperature, water | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 44320
Pollutant: | Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Independence Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Water Temperature.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region's water quality objective for all surface waters states the following: The natural receiving water temperature of all waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such an alteration in temperature does not adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. For waters designated COLD, the temperature shall not be altered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: | Inland Fishes of California (Moyle 1976) states that for rainbow trout the optimum range for growth and completion of most life stages is 13-21 degrees C (page 129).
Guideline Reference: | Fish introductions in CA: History and impact on native fishes. Davis, CA: University of CA, Davis
Spatial Representation: | Data for this line of evidence for Independence Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Independence Creek]
Temporal Representation: | Data was collected on a single day 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: | Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32040 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 16 samples is needed for application of table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32040, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN) | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 32206
Pollutant: | Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The single sample did not exceed the water quality objective for Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen expressed as an annual mean of monthly means.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The site specific objective for Independence Cr at Mouth for Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen is 0.17 mg/L expressed as an annual mean of monthly means.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at monitoring station Independence Creek (636PS0006).
Temporal Representation: | Sample was collected on 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32041 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | Total Nitrogen as N
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 16 samples is needed for application of table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: |

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32041, Total Nitrogen as N | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 34598
Pollutant: | Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The single sample did not exceed the water quality objective for Total Nitrogen expressed as an annual mean of monthly means.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The site specific objective for Independence Cr at Mouth for Total Nitrogen is 0.2 mg/L expressed as an annual mean of monthly means.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at monitoring station Independence Creek (636PS0006).
Temporal Representation: | Sample was collected on 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 32042 | Region 6
Independence Creek

Pollutant: | pH
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. The single sample was not used in the assessment because the applicable objective states: "In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units." There is not enough sampling to establish the normal ambient pH level for this waterbody, therefore, it is not known if the sample exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. It is not known if the single sample exceeds the water quality objective because the applicable objective requires knowledge of the normal ambient pH level for this waterbody, which is unknown at this time.This sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 26 samples is needed for application of table 3.2. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32042, pH | Region 6
Independence Creek
LOE ID: | 33130
Pollutant: | pH
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 0
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | There was 1 sample with a pH of 8.19. The normal ambient pH level for this water body is unknown and so it is unknown whether any exceedences occured.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The applicable objective states: "In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units." (Lahontan Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at station 636PS0006 in Independence Creek.
Temporal Representation: | The sample was collected on 7/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan